The highest mountains in Ireland: What sports to practice
After a lot of hustle and bustle in the city, sometimes we need a change of scenery and surround ourselves with a slightly calmer landscape. There is nothing more restorative than a walk in the mountains or any outdoor activity, breathing fresh air and clearing your mind in the middle of nature.
Ireland is a country full of enchanting mountains and valleys, and if you are looking for an active holiday, it is the perfect place! There are many hiking trails throughout the country, and if you are an experienced climber, you can even climb some of the highest mountains in Ireland. Are you ready to plan your next adventure? Here is a list of the five highest mountains in Ireland so you can plan your route.
- Carrauntoohil, 1,039 meters
The highest mountain in Ireland is Mount Carrauntoohil, which is located in Killarney National Park in the south west of the country. If you are looking for a challenge, this is the perfect mountain for you, as the most popular route is one of the most difficult in Ireland. However, the view from the top is worth the effort, and you will be able to see the Lakes of Killarney and the rolling green landscape of Ireland. If you decide to climb this mountain, make sure you start early in the morning to avoid the crowds, and don't forget to bring warm clothes, as the weather at the top can be very cool.
- Croagh Patrick, 764 meters
Croagh Patrick is a mountain known around the world, as thousands of pilgrims climb to the top every year to pay homage to Saint Patrick. Although the trail is relatively easy, you should be aware that the weather at the top can be very harsh, and there is no shelter in case of bad weather. If you are going to make the ascent, make sure you are well prepared and wear warm clothes, as it can get very cold, even in summer.
- Slieve Donard, 849 meters
Slieve Donard is the highest mountain in Ulster and is located in Morne National Park in the south east of Ireland. The route to the top is relatively easy, with most hikers taking about three hours to reach the top. The scenery is spectacular, and you can see the Morne Mountains, the sea and, on a clear day, even the British Isles. The top of Slieve Donard is a perfect spot for a picnic, so make sure you pack a warm coat and food.
- Mount Brandon, 952 meters
Mount Brandon is the highest mountain on the Dingle Peninsula in the south west of Ireland. The route is a little more difficult than the previous ones, but the landscape that can be seen from the top is worth the effort. You'll be able to see the Atlantic Ocean, the Blasket Islands and, on a clear day, even the mountains of Snowdonia in Wales. Mount Brandon is a popular spot for nature lovers, so make sure you also pack a warm coat and some food.
- Mweelrea, 814 meters
Mweelrea is the highest mountain in County Mayo, in the west of Ireland. The route is relatively easy, but the landscape that can be seen from the top is worth the effort. You'll be able to see Lake Mweelrea, the Atlantic Ocean and, on a clear day, even the islands of Clew Bay. Mweelrea is a very popular place for nature lovers.
As we have already seen, there are many mountains in Ireland, but you should know that the highest ones are in County Mayo, you may find this information useful when planning your trip to this wonderful country, as our French friends would say , there is nothing better than learning English as a family in nature or “apprendre l'anglais en famille” accompanied by outdoor activities. Therefore, if you are going to visit this country in a summer camp and you are also a lover of outdoor sports, we recommend you make a guide of all the mountains that you can visit.
Mountain Sports:
Why climb a mountain? There are many reasons why people enjoy outdoor sports, and especially mountain sports. Some people do it because they like the challenge of surpassing a physical goal. Others do it because they love the feeling of freedom they feel when they are in direct contact with nature. Whatever your motivation, playing sports outdoors has many health benefits. Some of the most important benefits are:
Improved physical condition: Playing sports outdoors is a great way to improve your physical condition. By being in direct contact with nature, you are also exposed to a greater amount of vitamins and minerals.
Reduces stress: playing sports outdoors helps you relax and forget about day-to-day problems. It also helps you sleep better at night. Improves mental well-being: Playing sports outdoors helps you reduce stress, which in turn can improve your mental well-being. It also helps you to be more alert and have a better concentration.
If you like adventure and adrenaline, then practicing mountain sports is for you. These are the mountain sports most practiced by the Irish:
Climbing:
Climbing is a sport that consists of climbing a rock wall or a mountain. It is a very popular sport among adventure lovers, as it offers a great physical and mental challenge.
Mountaineering: Mountaineering is an extreme sport that involves climbing the highest and most difficult mountains in the world. It is a very dangerous sport, but it is also extremely rewarding.
Trekking:
Trekking involves long walks on mountain trails. It is a very popular sport among those who enjoy nature and beautiful views.
The ski:
In the winter season it is also very popular among the Irish, since it is a popular sport in this country and they love to ski, as well as attracting tourists throughout the winter season.
The hiking:
It is also very popular among the Irish, as there are many mountains to walk with countless routes to enjoy this complete sport.
In short, these are just a few of the highest mountains in Ireland and the outdoor sports you can do on them, so you're spoiled for choice! Start planning your next adventure and enjoy the wonderful views that these mountains offer you.